This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Both presidential candidates are taking the stage over the next two weeks to try to sell us on the idea they can lead our nation. One way to demonstrate they have what it takes to be president is to tell voters how they'll keep Social Security strong for our children, grandchildren and family members with disabilities.
Approximately half of Social Security recipients in Utah rely on the program for 50 percent of their income, with nearly all working Utahns paying into the program, but it is out of date. If our nation's leaders don't act, future retirees or adults with disabilities could lose up to $10,000 a year in benefits.
Today's workers and future generations will likely have an even greater need for Social Security with a volatile stock market and fewer jobs offering pensions.
Before we decide who to vote for, we deserve to know the presidential candidates' plans for leading the action to update Social Security for us, our children, grandchildren and family members with disabilities.
Our parents and grandparents did it for us. Now it is our turn.
Donna Russell
State President, AARP Utah